Walking training apparatus

ABSTRACT

A walking training apparatus having a support vest adapted to be fitted around the torso of an infant, the support vest having a left and right attachment projections with buckles. Left and right straps, each having buckles on one end and forming a loop handle on the opposite end, attach to the projection buckles. Both straps have clasps connected to the buckle end and slidably attached to the strap, allowing strap length to be adjusted. The left and right projection buckles are detachably connectable to one another when the straps are removed from the vest, preventing the projection buckles from distracting the infant or snagging on other objects. The vest is fitted using hook and loop fasteners and vest straps. All seams are double bar tacked for durability.

RELATED APPLICATION DATA

The present application is a continuation in part of U.S. patentapplication Ser. No. 11/314,317, also entitled “Walking TrainingApparatus,” filed Dec. 21, 2005, which is herein incorporated byreference as if fully set forth in its entirety for its pertinent andsupportive teachings.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

1. Field of the Invention

The present embodiment of the invention relates to a walking trainingapparatus for use in connection with devices used to train infants towalk. The walking training apparatus has particular utility inconnection with a walking training apparatus having adjustabledetachable handles and a bell shaped attachment projection.

Currently, training an infant to walk requires an attendant to hover ina stooped position over the infant to ensure that no injury occursduring the inevitable falls that will occur during learning to walk. Thepain associated with learning to walk increases the frustration levelfor the infant and hampers the training. Additionally, the leaning overof the infant to prevent injuries can harm the back of the attendant.Current solutions to this problem restrict the shoulder movement of theinfant and have a single point of contact from the handle to the harnessthus increasing the snap back that the infant feels when kept fromfalling which poses a safety hazard. Additionally, current solutionshave a non-removable handle that the child drags with him when crawlingoff on his own to play.

Therefore, what is needed is a walking training apparatus thatdistributes the restraining force over a wide area thus restricting snapback, which has a removable handle that can be adjusted for length.

2. Description of Prior Art

Walking training apparatus are desirable training an infant to walk withreduced chance of injury for the infant and reduced chance of backinjury for the attendant.

The use of devices used to train infants to walk is known in the priorart. For example, U.S. Pat. No. 1,749,999 to Crocker discloses amanually held supporting device for assisting children in learning towalk that as a torso harness, set of non-adjustable handle straps havingsingle attachment points and shoulder straps. However, the Crocker '999patent does not have a bell shaped set of handle strap attachments, doesnot have a removable handle, and does not have an adjustable handlestrap.

Similarly, United States Document No. 2003/0207737 to Sherman et al.discloses a walking training apparatus that has a body portion having aclosed side with leg openings, shoulder straps and a single handle.However, the Sherman et al '737 document does not have bell shapedhandle strap attachment and does not have an adjustable handle strap.The Sherman et al '737 document teaches a single attachment point thatis circular and which could catch on objects when the infant is awayfrom the attendant, additionally the document teaches shoulder strapsand does not use under arm support to restrain the infant from falling.

Likewise, U.S. Pat. No. 5,388,551 to Martusciello discloses aconvertible harness system having a waist encircling band and shoulderstraps. However, the Martusciello '551 patent does not have bell shapedhandle strap attachments and does not have an adjustable handle strap.

Correspondingly, U.S. Pat. No. 149,692 to Tardy discloses a babyexercising corset that has a corset having two long cords connected tothe corset. However, the Tardy '692 patent does not have bell shapedhandle strap attachments and does not have an adjustable handle strapand does not have a detachable handle.

Further, U.S. Pat. No. 6,910,993 to Baran discloses a device for use inteaching infants to walk that has a support pant having support strapsconnected to the pant. However, the Baran '993 patent does not have bellshaped handle strap attachments and does not have a detachable handle.

Lastly, United States Document Number 200/0207736 to Mungia discloses aninfant walker trainer that has a lateral support bar adapted to besecured around the stomach and chest area of the infant and a handle atthe upper end of the support bar to guide the trainer. However, theMungia '736 document does not does not have bell shaped handle strapattachments and does not have a detachable handle.

While the above-described devices fulfill their respective, particularobjectives and requirements, the aforementioned patents do not describea walking training apparatus that allows walking training apparatushaving adjustable detachable handles, bell shaped attachments for thehandle strap, a provision to prevent the handle attachment points fromloosely moving and distracting the child when the handles are removed.The Crocker '999, Sherman et al '737, Martusciello '551, Tardy '692,Baran '993 and Mungia '736 patents make no provision for bell shapedhandle strap attachments.

Therefore, a need exists for a new and improved walking trainingapparatus having adjustable detachable handles which can be used forassisting an infant learning to walk. In this regard, the presentembodiment of the invention substantially fulfills this need. In thisrespect, the walking training apparatus according to the presentembodiment of the invention substantially departs from the conventionalconcepts and designs of the prior art, and in doing so provides anapparatus primarily developed for the purpose of walking trainingapparatus having adjustable detachable handles and bell shapedattachments for the handle strap.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

The walking training apparatus of the present invention has a torsoharness which covers the torso of the infant and distributes therestraining force over the body mass of the infant and supports theinfant underneath the arms as would occur when an attendant is catchinga falling infant from behind. The walking training apparatus hasunrestricted shoulder area and strictly uses a torso harness to allowthe child to play without shoulder restrictions. The handle straps areadjustable in length allowing their use for different size attendantsand also for use with both crawling and walking training, additionallymodifying the length allows varying the amount of support offered to theinfant. The adjustable handle straps adjust to the parent's height toreduce back pain because the parent will not have to bend over and willbe able to adjust the straps to their height. The handles of the presentinvention also removable which allows the infant to play with reducedprobability of catching the restraint on an object. Additionally, inorder to further reduce the probability of catching the restraint on anobject or of distracting the infant, the buckles to which the strapsattach may be connected to one another when the straps are removed. Thebenefit of the comfort cushion is to provide a cushion for the baby'scomfort at the baby's armpits. If the comfort cushion does not exist,the baby's underarms/armpits would become sore when using the invention.The removable handle straps also make the strap connection pointsshorter which is safer for the baby and minimizes entanglement risks.Another benefit of the present invention is that without a shoulderharness or other restraints the baby is allowed to balance naturallywhen learning to walk which is a benefit that has been noted bypediatricians.

In view of the foregoing disadvantages inherent in the known types ofdevices used to train infants to walk now present in the prior art, thepresent embodiment of the invention provides an improved walkingtraining apparatus, and overcomes the above-mentioned disadvantages anddrawbacks of the prior art. As such, the general purpose of the presentembodiment of the invention, which will be described subsequently ingreater detail, is to provide a new and improved walking trainingapparatus and method which has all the advantages of the prior artmentioned heretofore and many novel features that result in a walkingtraining apparatus which is not anticipated, rendered obvious,suggested, or even implied by the prior art, either alone or in anycombination thereof.

To attain this, the present embodiment of the invention is a walkingtraining apparatus has a support vest adapted to be fitted around thetorso of an infant, the support vest having a left bell-shapedattachment projection with a left projection buckle, and a rightbell-shaped attachment projection with a right projection buckle. A leftstrap having a buckle on one end and forming a left loop handle on theopposite end attaches to the left projection buckle. The apparatus alsohas right strap forming a loop handle on one end and having a rightstrap buckle on the opposite end that attaches to the right projectionbuckle. Both straps have clasps connected to the buckle end and slidablyattached to the strap, allowing the strap length to be adjusted. Theleft and right projection buckles are detachably connectable to oneanother when said left strap and said right strap are removed from thevest, preventing the buckles from distracting the infant or snagging onother objects. The vest is fitted using a hook and loop fasteners andvest straps. All seams are double bar tacked for durability.

There has thus been outlined, rather broadly, the more importantfeatures of the embodiment of the invention in order that the detaileddescription thereof that follows may be better understood and in orderthat the present contribution to the art may be better appreciated.

The present embodiment of the invention may also include a left handlebuckle, a right handle buckle, a left handle, a right handle, a leftvest strap, a right vest strap, a support vest buckle, a vest cushionpad, a left handle cushion pad, a right handle cushion pad, a left straploop and a right strap loop. There are, of course, additional featuresof the present embodiment of the invention that will be describedhereinafter and which will form the subject matter of the claimsattached.

Numerous objects, features and advantages of the present embodiment ofthe invention will be readily apparent to those of ordinary skill in theart upon a reading of the following detailed description of presentlypreferred, but nonetheless illustrative, embodiments of the presentembodiment of the invention when taken in conjunction with theaccompanying drawings. In this respect, before explaining the currentembodiment of the embodiment of the invention in detail, it is to beunderstood that the embodiment of the invention is not limited in itsapplication to the details of construction and to the arrangements ofthe components set forth in the following description or illustrated inthe drawings. The invention is capable of other embodiments and of beingpracticed and carried out in various ways. Also, it is to be understoodthat the phraseology and terminology employed herein are for the purposeof descriptions and should not be regarded as limiting.

As such, those skilled in the art will appreciate that the conception,upon which this disclosure is based, may readily be utilized as a basisfor the designing of other structures, methods and systems for carryingout the several purposes of the present invention. It is important,therefore, that the claims be regarded as including such equivalentconstructions insofar as they do not depart from the spirit and scope ofthe present embodiment of the invention.

It is therefore an object of the present embodiment of the invention toprovide a new and improved walking training apparatus that has all ofthe advantages of the prior art devices used to train infants to walkand none of the disadvantages.

It is another object of the present embodiment of the invention toprovide a new and improved walking training apparatus that may be easilyand efficiently manufactured and marketed, and that has a low cost ofmanufacture with regard to both materials and labor, and whichaccordingly is then susceptible of low prices of sale to the consumingpublic, thereby making such walking training apparatus economicallyavailable to the buying public.

Still another object of the present embodiment of the invention is toprovide a new walking training apparatus that provides in theapparatuses and methods of the prior art some of the advantages thereof,while simultaneously overcoming some of the disadvantages normallyassociated therewith.

Even still another object of the present embodiment of the invention isto provide a walking training apparatus for walking training apparatushaving adjustable detachable handles.

Still yet another object of the present embodiment of the invention isto provide a walking training apparatus for walking training apparatushaving detachable handles.

Further still another object of the present embodiment of the inventionis to provide a walking training apparatus for walking trainingapparatus having no shoulder straps and using torso and under armsupport.

Yet further still another object of the present embodiment of theinvention is to provide a walking training apparatus for walkingtraining apparatus having adjustable handle straps.

Lastly, an object of the present embodiment of the invention is toprovide a walking training apparatus for walking training apparatushaving attachment buckles that are secured when the handle straps areremoved.

These together with other objects of the embodiment of the invention,along with the various features of novelty that characterize theembodiment of the invention, are pointed out with particularity in theclaims annexed to and forming a part of this disclosure. For a betterunderstanding of the embodiment of the invention, its operatingadvantages and the specific objects attained by its uses, referenceshould be had to the accompanying drawings and descriptive matter inwhich there is illustrated preferred embodiments of the invention.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

The embodiment of the invention will be better understood and objectsother than those set forth above will become apparent when considerationis given to the following detailed description thereof. FIGS. 1-5 of theparent application and the accompanying detailed descriptions thereofare herein incorporated by reference. Such description makes referenceto the annexed drawings wherein:

FIG. 1 is a front perspective view of the preferred embodiment of thewalking training apparatus constructed in accordance with the principlesof the present invention.

FIG. 2 is a rear perspective view of the walking training apparatus ofthe present embodiment of the invention.

FIG. 3 is a front perspective view of the walking training apparatus ofthe present embodiment of the invention.

FIG. 4 is a left side perspective view of the walking training apparatusof the present embodiment of the invention.

FIG. 5 is a rear perspective view of the walking training apparatus ofthe present embodiment of the invention.

FIG. 6 is a front perspective view of the preferred embodiment of thewalking training apparatus constructed in accordance with the principlesof the present invention.

FIG. 7 is a rear perspective view of the walking training apparatus ofthe present embodiment of the invention.

FIG. 8 is a front perspective view of the walking training apparatus ofthe present embodiment of the invention.

FIG. 9 is a left side perspective view of the walking training apparatusof the present embodiment of the invention.

FIG. 10 is a rear perspective view of the walking training apparatus ofthe present embodiment of the invention.

FIG. 11 is a rear perspective view of the walking training apparatus ofthe present embodiment of the invention.

FIG. 12 is a rear perspective view of the walking training apparatus ofthe present embodiment of the invention.

FIG. 12 further illustrates exploded view FIG. 12A of the handle fabricand exploded view 12B of the hook and look fastener.

FIG. 13 is a front perspective view of the walking training apparatus ofthe present embodiment of the invention.

FIG. 14 is a rear perspective view of the walking training apparatus ofthe present embodiment of the invention.

FIG. 15 is a rear perspective view of the walking training apparatus ofthe present embodiment of the invention.

FIG. 16 is a left perspective view of the walking training apparatus ofthe present embodiment of the invention.

FIG. 17 is a rear perspective view of the walking training apparatus ofthe present embodiment of the invention.

The same reference numerals refer to the same parts throughout thevarious figures.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

Referring now to the drawings, and particularly to FIGS. 1-17, apreferred embodiment of the walking training apparatus of the presentinvention is shown and generally designated by the reference numeral 10.

In FIG. 1, a new and improved walking training apparatus 10 of thepresent invention for walking training apparatus having adjustabledetachable handles and bell shaped attachments for the handle strap isillustrated and will be described. More particularly, the walkingtraining apparatus 10 has a support vest 12 having a top end 14, abottom end 16, a back side 18, a left side 20 and a right side 22. Thesupport vest 12 is adapted to be fitted around the torso of the infant.A left upper strap 24 is connected to the support vest top end left sideat a left bell shaped attachment projection 26. A right upper strap 28is connected to the support vest top end right side at a right bellshaped attachment projection 30. A left handle buckle 32 is connected tothe left upper strap 24. A right handle buckle 34 is connected to theright upper strap 28. A left handle 36 is detachably connected to theleft handle buckle 32. A right handle 38 is detachably connected to theright handle buckle 34. A vest cushion pad 46 is connected the supportvest 12 adjacent to the support vest top end 14. A left handle cushionpad 48 is connected the left handle 36. A right handle cushion pad 50 isconnected the right handle 38. A pair of removable shoulder straps 60are also shown in FIG. 1. The removable shoulder straps 60 are optional,and are removably attached to the support vest 12 by buttons in thecurrent embodiment, but those skilled in the art will readily appreciatethat a variety of methods may be employed.

In FIG. 2, the walking training apparatus 10 of the present inventionfor walking training apparatus is illustrated and will be described.More particularly, the walking training apparatus 10 has the supportvest 12 having the top end 14, the bottom end 16, the back side 18, theleft side 20 and the right side 22. The support vest 12 is adapted to befitted around the torso of the infant. The left upper strap 24 isconnected to the support vest top end left side at the left bell shapedattachment projection 26. The right upper strap 28 is connected to thesupport vest top end right side at the right bell shaped attachmentprojection 30. The left handle buckle 32 is connected to the left upperstrap 24. The right handle buckle 34 is connected to the right upperstrap 28. The left handle 36 is detachably connected to the left handlebuckle 32. The right handle 38 is detachably connected to the righthandle buckle 34. A left vest strap 40 is connected to the support vestleft side 20. A left belt loop 56 is connected to the left vest strap40. A right vest strap 42 is connected to the support vest right side22. A right belt loop 58 is connected to the right vest strap 42. Asupport vest buckle 44 is connected to the support vest left side 20 andto the vest right side 22. The vest cushion pad 46 is connected thesupport vest 12 adjacent to the support vest top end 14. The left handlecushion pad 48 is connected the left handle 36. The right handle cushionpad 50 is connected the right handle 38. A left strap loop 52 connectedthe left upper strap 24. A right strap loop 54 is connected the rightupper strap 28.

In FIG. 3, the walking training apparatus 10 of the present inventionfor walking training apparatus is illustrated and will be described. Inthis figure the invention is seen in use held by an adult with thesupport vest 12 on the infant. The adult holding the left handle 36 andthe right handle 38.

In FIG. 4, the walking training apparatus 10 of the present inventionfor walking training apparatus is illustrated and will be described. Inthis figure the invention is seen in use held by an adult with thesupport vest 12 on the infant. The adult holding the left handle 36. Theleft upper strap 24 being connected to a bell shaped connectiondistributes the force of restraining a falling infant over the entiretorso section and not just from one point.

In FIG. 5, the walking training apparatus 10 of the present inventionfor walking training apparatus is illustrated and will be described. Inthis figure the invention is seen in use with the support vest 12 on theinfant. The left upper strap 24 and the right upper strap 28 distributethe force of restraining a falling infant over the entire torso section.

In FIG. 6, a new and improved walking training apparatus 10 of thepresent invention for walking training apparatus having adjustabledetachable handles and bell-shaped attachments for the handle strap isillustrated and will be described. More particularly, the walkingtraining apparatus 10 has a support vest 12 having a top end 14, abottom end 16, a back side 18, a left side 20 and a right side 22. Thesupport vest 12 is adapted to be fitted around the torso of the infant.A left strap 62 is connected to the support vest top end left side at aleft bell shaped attachment projection 26. A right strap 64 is connectedto the support vest top end right side at a right bell shaped attachmentprojection 30. A left loop handle 36 is formed by an end of the leftstrap 62 being double bar tack stitched 66 to the left strap 62. A rightloop handle 38 is formed by an end of the right strap 64 being doublebar tack stitched 66 to the left strap 64. Double bar tacking allows forgreater handle durability and also provides an additional point ofattachment should one stitch fail, preventing an infant from fallingbecause of a single stitch failure. Strap clasps 68 are attached at theend of the left and right straps 62 & 64 opposite of the loop handle 36& 38 ends. The strap clasps 68 are slidably adjustable along therespective left 62 and right straps 64, thereby allowing the length ofthe straps to be adjusted. The strap clasp ends are passed throughbuckles 32 and 34 that attach the respective strap to the vest 12. Anovel feature of the strap buckles 32 and 34 are that the left buckle 32is oriented opposite the orientation of the right buckle 34. Althoughthis prevents the left strap 62 from being interchangeable with theright strap 64, it also allows the left projection buckle 70 tointerlock with the right projection buckle 72, thereby preventing thebuckles from flopping loose when the straps are detached. Interlockingprojection buckles have multiple advantages: the buckles do not floploosely and are less likely to snag and disrupt a crawling or walkinginfant, and they are also less likely to distract an infant who mightplace the buckle in his or her mouth. The distance from the projectionto the projection buckle, is also minimized in this embodiment infurtherance of these advantages. A vest cushion pad 46 is connected thesupport vest 12 adjacent to the support vest top end 14. A left handlecushion pad 48 is connected the left handle 36. A right handle cushionpad 50 is connected the right handle 38. A pair of removable shoulderstraps 60 are also shown in FIG. 1. The removable shoulder straps 60 areoptional, and are removably attached to the support vest 12 by buttonsin the current embodiment, but those skilled in the art will readilyappreciate that a variety of methods may be employed.

In FIG. 7, the walking training apparatus 10 of the present inventionfor walking training apparatus is illustrated and will be described.More particularly, the walking training apparatus 10 has the supportvest 12 having the top end 14, the bottom end 16, the back side 18, theleft side 20 and the right side 22. The support vest 12 is adapted to befitted around the torso of the infant. The left strap 62 is connected tothe support vest top end left side at the left bell shaped attachmentprojection 26. The right strap 64 is connected to the support vest topend right side at the right bell shaped attachment projection 30. A leftvest strap 40 is connected to the support vest left side 20. A left beltloop 56 is connected to the left vest strap 40. A right vest strap 42 isconnected to the support vest right side 22. A right belt loop 58 isconnected to the right vest strap 42. A support vest buckle 44 isconnected to the support vest left side 20 and to the vest right side22. The vest cushion pad 46 is connected the support vest 12 adjacent tothe support vest top end 14. Left 36 and right 38 handles are formed bydouble bar tacking one end of each strap to its respective strap. Theleft handle cushion pad 48 is connected the left loop handle 36. Theright handle cushion pad 50 is connected the right loop handle 38.

In FIG. 8, the walking training apparatus 10 of the present inventionfor walking training apparatus is illustrated and will be described. Inthis figure the invention is seen in use held by an adult with thesupport vest 12 on the infant. The support vest employs removableshoulder straps 60 in this illustration. The adult holding the lefthandle 36 and the right handle 38.

In FIG. 9, the walking training apparatus 10 of the present inventionfor walking training apparatus is illustrated and will be described. Inthis figure the invention is seen in use held by an adult with thesupport vest 12 on the infant. The adult can be seen holding the lefthandle 36. A removable shoulder strap 60 fits around the shoulder of theinfant. The left strap 62 being connected to a bell shaped connectiondistributes the force of restraining a falling infant over the entiretorso section and not just from one point.

In FIG. 10, the walking training apparatus 10 of the present inventionfor walking training apparatus is illustrated and will be described. Inthis figure the invention is seen in use with the support vest 12 on theinfant. The removable shoulder straps 60 prevent the vest from slidingdown from the torso towards the waist of the infant. The left strap 62and the right strap 64 distribute the force of restraining a fallinginfant over the entire torso section.

In FIG. 11, the walking training apparatus 10 of the present inventionfor walking training apparatus is illustrated and will be described. InFIG. 11, it can be seen that the left projection buckle 70 can couplewith the right projection buckle 72 when the left and right straps aredetached from the vest 12. Interlocking projection buckles have multipleadvantages: the buckles do not flop loosely and are less likely to snagand disrupt a crawling or walking infant, and they are also less likelyto distract an infant who might place the buckle in his or her mouth.The distance from the projection to the projection buckle, is alsominimized in this embodiment in furtherance of these advantages.

In FIG. 12, the walking training apparatus 10 of the present inventionfor walking training apparatus is illustrated and will be described. InFIG. 12, it can be seen that the left strap 62 and the right strap 64may be detachably removed from the vest 12. An interlocking support vestbuckle 44 is connected to the support vest left side 20 and to the vestright side 22. The end of the vest buckle attachment straps are bartacked to prevent the buckle from sliding off of the adjustingattachment strap and becoming a choking hazard. Additionally, in anexploded view of the handle labeled FIG. 12A, it is illustrated that adouble bar stitch 66 is employed to secure an end of a strap to itselfto form a handle. A different material is used to form the interior 48of the handle, resulting in a cushion pad 48. Those skilled in the artwill recognize that a contrasting material will provide additional gripwithout deviating from the spirit and scope of a pad. In an additionalexploded view labeled FIG. 12B, the hook and loop fastener 74 used tosecure the vest 12 about an infant is detailed. The hook and loopfastener 74 is secured to the vest 12 using a double stitch 76 toincrease durability as the vest is repeatedly secured and removed froman infant.

In FIG. 13, a new and improved walking training apparatus 10 of thepresent invention for walking training apparatus having adjustabledetachable handles and bell-shaped attachments for the handle strap isillustrated and will be described. More particularly, the walkingtraining apparatus 10 has a support vest 12 having a top end 14, abottom end 16, a back side 18, a left side 20 and a right side 22. Thesupport vest 12 is adapted to be fitted around the torso of the infant.A left strap 62 is connected to the support vest top end left side at aleft bell shaped attachment projection 26. A right strap 64 is connectedto the support vest top end right side at a right bell shaped attachmentprojection 30. A left loop handle 36 is formed by an end of the leftstrap 62 being double bar tacked 66 to the left strap 62. A right loophandle 38 is formed by an end of the right strap 64 being double bartacked 66 to the left strap 64. Double bar tacking allows for greaterhandle durability and also provides an additional point of attachmentshould one stitch fail, preventing an infant from falling because of asingle stitch failure. Strap clasps 68 are attached at the end of theleft and right straps 62 & 64 opposite of the loop handle 36 & 38 ends.The strap clasps 68 are slidably adjustable along the respective left 62and right straps 64, thereby allowing the length of the straps to beadjusted. The strap clasp ends are passed through buckles 32 and 34 thatattach the respective strap to the vest 12. A novel feature of the strapbuckles 32 and 34 are that the left buckle 32 is oriented opposite theorientation of the right buckle 34. Although this prevents the leftstrap 62 from being interchangeable with the right strap 64, it alsoallows the left projection buckle 70 to interlock with the rightprojection buckle 72, thereby preventing the buckles from flopping loosewhen the straps are detached. A vest cushion pad 46 is connected thesupport vest 12 adjacent to the support vest top end 14. A left handlecushion pad 48 is connected the left handle 36. A right handle cushionpad 50 is connected the right handle 38.

In FIG. 14, a new and improved walking training apparatus 10 of thepresent invention for walking training apparatus having adjustabledetachable handles and bell-shaped attachments for the handle strap isillustrated and will be described. More particularly, the walkingtraining apparatus 10 has a support vest 12 having a top end 14, abottom end 16, a back side 18, a left side 20 and a right side 22. Thesupport vest 12 is adapted to be fitted around the torso of the infant.A left strap 62 is connected to the support vest top end left side at aleft bell shaped attachment projection 26. A right strap 64 is connectedto the support vest top end right side at a right bell shaped attachmentprojection 30. A left loop handle 36 is formed by an end of the leftstrap 62 being double bar tacked 66 to the left strap 62. A right loophandle 38 is formed by an end of the right strap 64 being double bartacked 66 to the left strap 64. Double bar tacking allows for greaterhandle durability and also provides an additional point of attachmentshould one stitch fail, preventing an infant from falling because of asingle stitch failure. Strap clasps 68 are attached at the end of theleft and right straps 62 & 64 opposite of the loop handle 36 & 38 ends.The strap clasps 68 are slidably adjustable along the respective left 62and right straps 64, thereby forming left 52 and right 54 adjustmentloops that allow the length of the straps to be adjusted. Note that thisis an improvement from the previous embodiment in that attaching theclasps 68 to the end of the loops prevents dangling strap ends. Thestrap clasp ends are passed through buckles 32 and 34 that attach therespective strap to the vest 12. The right strap 64 is connected to thesupport vest top end right side at the right bell-shaped attachmentprojection 30. A left vest strap 40 is connected to the support vestleft side 20 at the left bell-shaped attachment projection 26. A leftbelt loop 56 is connected to the left vest strap 40. A right vest strap42 is connected to the support vest right side 22. A right belt loop 58is connected to the right vest strap 42. A support vest buckle 44 isconnected to the support vest left side 20 and to the vest right side22. The vest cushion pad 46 is connected the support vest 12 adjacent tothe support vest top end 14. Left 36 and right 38 handles are formed bydouble bar tacking one end of each strap to its respective strap. Theleft handle cushion pad 48 is connected the left loop handle 36. Theright handle cushion pad 50 is connected the right loop handle 38.

In FIG. 15, the walking training apparatus 10 of the present inventionfor walking training apparatus is illustrated and will be described. Inthis figure the invention is seen in use held by an adult with thesupport vest 12 on the infant. The adult holding the left handle 36 andthe right handle 38.

In FIG. 16, the walking training apparatus 10 of the present inventionfor walking training apparatus is illustrated and will be described. Inthis figure the invention is seen in use held by an adult with thesupport vest 12 on the infant. The adult can be seen holding the lefthandle 36. A removable shoulder strap 60 fits around the shoulder of theinfant. The left strap 62 being connected to a bell shaped connectiondistributes the force of restraining a falling infant over the entiretorso section and not just from one point.

In FIG. 17, the walking training apparatus 10 of the present inventionfor walking training apparatus is illustrated and will be described. Inthis figure the invention is seen in use with the support vest 12 on theinfant. The removable shoulder straps 60 prevent the vest from slidingdown from the torso towards the waist of the infant. The left strap 62and the right strap 64 distribute the force of restraining a fallinginfant over the entire torso section.

Size and Age Requirements

Minimum: 19″ Chest Circumference (6 months)

Maximum: 26″ Chest Circumference (2 years)

Key Benefits of the Walking Training Apparatus

Baby's: Parent's and Caregiver's: Develop a sense of independence Worryless - baby experiences fewer Gain self-confidence while falls learningto walk Avoid the back pain associated with Experience fewer falls andrecover teaching a baby to walk from falls more easily Easy to use andtake anywhere Balance more naturally with two Small and portable producthands free Delight in watching your baby take their first steps withconfidence

In use it can now be seen that, to use the walking training apparatusadjust both handle straps to a comfortable length. With the infantseated, securely fasten the support vest around the upper part of theinfant's chest just below the armpits with both the hook and loop andsafety buckle. The vest buckle and hook and loop attachments should bepositioned at the back with the straps on the top. At the back of thesupport vest, tighten the adjustable left vest strap and right veststrap to securely fit the infant. Ensure that the support vest fitssnuggly, but comfortably around the infant's chest and does not slidemore than one quarter inch in any direction. Make any furtheradjustments to the handle straps to comfortably meet your height. Aftersecurely fastening the walking training apparatus on the infant, holdthe straps straight above the infant's shoulders. This will support theinfant in an upright standing position while taking their first unsteadysteps.

While a preferred embodiment of the walking training apparatus has beendescribed in detail, it should be apparent that modifications andvariations thereto are possible, all of which fall within the truespirit and scope of the invention. With respect to the above descriptionthen, it is to be realized that the optimum dimensional relationshipsfor the parts of the invention, to include variations in size,materials, shape, form, function and manner of operation, assembly anduse, are deemed readily apparent and obvious to one skilled in the art,and all equivalent relationships to those illustrated in the drawingsand described in the specification are intended to be encompassed by thepresent embodiment of the invention. For example, any suitable materialmay be used instead of the washable material described.

Therefore, the foregoing is considered as illustrative only of theprinciples of the embodiment of the invention. Further, since numerousmodifications and changes will readily occur to those skilled in theart, it is not desired to limit the embodiment of the invention to theexact construction and operation shown and described, and accordingly,all suitable modifications and equivalents may be resorted to, fallingwithin the scope of the embodiment of the invention.

1. A walking training apparatus comprising: a support vest, the supportvest having a top end, the support vest having a bottom end, the supportvest having a back side, the support vest having a left side, thesupport vest having a right side, the support vest is adapted to befitted around the torso of an infant, the support vest having a leftattachment projection having a left projection buckle attached thereto,the support vest having a right attachment projection with a rightprojection buckle attached thereto; a left strap having opposite ends,with a left strap buckle on one said end, said left strap buckledetachably connectable to said left projection buckle; and a right straphaving opposite ends, with a right strap buckle on one said end, saidright strap buckle detachably connectable to said right projectionbuckle.
 2. The walking training apparatus of claim 1 wherein said leftprojection buckle and said right projection buckle are detachablyconnectable when said left strap and said right strap are removed fromsaid vest.
 3. The walking training apparatus of claim 1 further whereinsaid left strap comprises a left loop handle.
 4. The walking trainingapparatus of claim 3 comprising a left strap loop end opposite said leftstrap buckle end, said left strap loop end double bar tacked to saidleft strap to comprise said left loop handle.
 5. The walking trainingapparatus of claim 3 further comprising: a left handle cushion padconnected the left handle loop.
 6. The walking training apparatus ofclaim 1 wherein said left strap buckle end connects to said left strapbuckle and comprises a left strap clasp slidably adjustable on said leftstrap.
 7. The walking training apparatus of claim 1 further wherein saidright strap comprises a right loop handle.
 8. The walking trainingapparatus of claim 7 comprising a right strap loop end opposite saidright strap buckle end, said right strap loop end double bar tacked tosaid right strap to comprise said right loop handle.
 9. The walkingtraining apparatus of claim 7 further comprising: a right handle cushionpad connected said right loop handle.
 10. The walking training apparatusof claim 1 wherein said right strap buckle end connects to said rightstrap buckle and comprises a right strap clasp slidably adjustable onsaid right strap.
 11. The walking training apparatus of claim 1 furthercomprising: a hook and loop fastener connected to said left vest sideand said right vest side to adjustably fit said vest around the torso ofan infant.
 12. The walking training apparatus of claim 111 wherein saidhook and loop fastener is double row stitched to said vest.
 13. Thewalking training apparatus of claim 1 further comprising: a left veststrap connected to the support vest left side; and a right vest strapconnected to the support vest right side; wherein said left and rightvest straps are adjustably connectable.
 14. A walking training apparatuscomprising: a support vest, the support vest having a top end, thesupport vest having a bottom end, the support vest having a back side,the support vest having a left side, the support vest having a rightside, the support vest is adapted to be fitted around the torso of aninfant, the support vest having a left attachment projection having aleft projection buckle attached thereto, the support vest having a rightattachment projection with a right projection buckle attached thereto; aleft strap having opposite ends, a left strap buckle and a left strapclasp, said left strap comprising a left loop handle on one said end,said opposite left strap end connected to said left strap buckle andsaid left strap clasp, said left strap clasp slidably adjustable on saidleft strap, said left strap buckle detachably connectable to said leftprojection buckle; and a right strap having opposite ends, a right strapbuckle and a right strap clasp, said left strap comprising a right loophandle on one said end, said opposite right strap end connected to saidright strap buckle and said right strap clasp, said right strap claspslidably adjustable on said right strap, said right strap buckledetachably connectable to said left projection buckle.
 15. The walkingtraining apparatus of claim 1 wherein said left projection buckle andsaid right projection buckle are detachably connectable when said leftstrap and said right strap are removed from said vest.
 16. The walkingtraining apparatus of claim 15 wherein said left and right loop handlesare defined by double bar tacking an end of said left and right strapsto its respective strap.
 17. The walking training apparatus of claim 15further comprising: a hook and loop fastener connected to said left vestside and to said right vest side to adjustably fit said vest around thetorso of an infant.
 18. The walking training apparatus of claim 17further comprising: a left vest strap connected to the support vest leftside; and a right vest strap connected to the support vest right side;wherein said left and right vest straps are adjustably connectable. 19.The walking training apparatus of claim 18 further comprising a pair ofshoulder straps connected to said top end of said vest.
 20. A walkingtraining apparatus comprising: a support vest, the support vest having atop end, the support vest having a bottom end, the support vest having aback side, the support vest having a left side, the support vest havinga right side, the support vest is adapted to be fitted around the torsoof an infant, the support vest having a left attachment projectionhaving a left projection buckle attached thereto, the support vesthaving a right attachment projection with a right projection buckleattached thereto; a left strap having opposite ends, a left strap buckleand a left strap clasp, said left strap comprising a left loop handle onone said end, said opposite left strap end connected to said left strapbuckle and said left strap clasp, said left strap clasp slidablyadjustable on said left strap, said left strap buckle detachablyconnectable to said left projection buckle; and a right strap havingopposite ends, a right strap buckle and a right strap clasp, said rightstrap comprising a right loop handle on one said end, said oppositeright strap end connected to said right strap buckle and said rightstrap clasp, said right strap clasp slidably adjustable on said rightstrap, said right strap buckle detachably connectable to said leftprojection buckle; and a hook and loop fastener connected to said leftvest side and said right vest side to adjustably fit said vest aroundthe torso of an infant; a left vest strap connected to the support vestleft side, and a right vest strap connected to the support vest rightside; wherein said left and right vest straps are adjustablyconnectable. wherein said left projection buckle and said rightprojection buckle are detachably connectable when said left strap andsaid right strap are removed from said vest.